Private Tour Highlights
- Unearthing the ancient charms of Uxmal and Kabah in the Yucatan, cradling crumbling pyramids and temples from the Mayan Empire.
- Observing the traditions of the highland villages in Chiapas, including the distinctive dress, colorful markets and festivals.
- Staring in awe at the iconic Mayan-Toltec pyramids of Chichen-Itza, which dates back around 1,000 years and is an emblem of Mexico’s heritage.
- Soaking up the majesty of Machu Picchu, the ‘Lost City of the Incas’, with its polished stone works of the Cusco Imperial style.
- Taking a ride on a cog train through the world’s largest urban woodland, Rio’s Tijuca Forest, up towards the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer.
- Feeling the raw power of spectacular Iguazu Falls during a guided walking tour or invigorating boat ride.
- Glimpsing the Argentine gaucho culture in the Pampas with a folklore and gaucho show along with a traditional asado; a delicious barbecue meal.
- Delighting in the colonial and pre-colonial architecture of Cusco on a private walking tour, with visits to the bustling markets.
- Relishing lip-smacking Peruvian cuisine.
Tour Overview
Allow Yampu provide an Unforgettable Latin America Trip from Mexico to Argentina with stops in Mexico City, Lima, and Cusco. In addition, we will explore the Mayan ruins of Palenque, visit Buenos Aires for a Gaucho fiesta and Tango show, and then admire the impressive natural force of Iguazu Falls on the border of Argentina and Brazil.
Recently, following UNESCO recommendations, Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. While these new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins, they may cause some difficulties in your ability to visit them, so we recommend booking with plenty of notice.
Inclusions
Exclusions
International and regional airfare (unless specifically included), airport departure taxes that must be paid on-site, gratuities, meals not mentioned, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages with meals, early / late check-out, room service, visa fees/services and other personal items or services not mentioned.
Package Price: From £$ 12816
Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
Flight to Cancun
Flight to Cancun. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Enjoy a relaxed evening in Cancun.
Flight to Cancun. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Enjoy a relaxed evening in Cancun.
Chichen-Itza
In the morning make way to the Mayan pyramids of Chichen-Itza. The site is divided into three sections. The north grouping of structures is distinctly Toltec in style. The central group appears to be from the early period. The southern group is known as “The Old Chichen.” Travelers will find a large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok. Continue to Mérida for the night.
In the morning make way to the Mayan pyramids of Chichen-Itza. The site is divided into three sections. The north grouping of structures is distinctly Toltec in style. The central group appears to be from the early period. The southern group is known as “The Old Chichen.” Travelers will find a large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok. Continue to Mérida for the night.
Uxmal and Kabah
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Enjoy today’s incredible excursion to the archeological sites of Uxmal and Kabah. Uxmal was probably built around 700 A.D. The rich, green, fertile land provides a perfect setting for some of the most magnificent pyramids, buildings and temples of the ancient Mayan world. One can sense the history here while walking around and gazing at the stunning architecture and majestic layout of this ancient city. The Piramide del Adivino (the Oracle’s Pyramid) stands majestically above other buildings, and a climb to its summit will reward with spectacular views of the entire half-square-mile ancient city. Kabah is located south of Uxmal connecting both archeological sites by a grand 18-kilometer-long pedestrian causeway with monumental arches at each end. Kabah is the second largest ruin of the Puuc region, after Uxmal. The most famous structure at the Kabah ruins is the Palacio de las Mascaras (the Palace of the Masks), its facade decorated with hundreds of stone masks of the long-nosed rain god Chaac. It is also known as the Codz Poop, meaning “Rolled Matting.” The site also has a number of other palaces, low stone buildings, and step-pyramid temples to discover and enjoy. ...read less
Palenque
Transfer to the Merida airport for flight to Villahermosa and upon arrival, transfer to the hotel in Palenque.
Transfer to the Merida airport for flight to Villahermosa and upon arrival, transfer to the hotel in Palenque.
Archeological site of Palenque
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Enjoy a visit to the archeological site of Palenque. Walk through the same paths as the great Mayan Lords, and feel the charm and mystery of this culture. The Mayan site of Palenque is located northwest of the Maya lowlands in Chiapas, Mexico. Surrounded by the jungle, it is considered one of the most important archeological sites of Mesoamerica, a ceremonial center and home to a number of Mayan Lords. There are religious temples, plazas, open courts and a ball court, but most of the structures are palaces. Artifacts discovered at this site tell us about the Mayan Lords and in particular of Pacal, one of the best-known Lords of the Mayan civilization. Overnight in Palenque. ...read less
San Cristobal de las Casas
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Depart from the hotel in Palenque for San Cristobal de las Casas, one of the most beautiful colonial cities of Mexico. On the way, visit the beautiful Agua Azul Waterfalls, where the water descends over its limestone bed, in steps, forming impressive cascades that create natural ponds contained by calcareous walls. Their color comes from the limestone bed, during the rainy season its volume increase. In this place, take beautiful pictures from matchless natural surroundings. After, continue towards the hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas. ...read less
Native Villages
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Today visit the market of San Cristobal de las Casas, one of most typical of Chiapas, where hundreds of natives of the region meet to offer a great variety of products. There, find leather articles, straw hats, among other many things. Then visit the baroque-style Church of Santo Domingo, founded in 1547. Continue towards San Juan Chamula, which is approximately 10-minute drive. This town is inhabited by the Tzotziles, one of the main indigenous communities of Mexico. Visit the church to observe the influence of the paganism in their ceremonies. Later, continue towards Zinacantan, another indigenous community. Visit to the town, where there is a church and craftsmen. Return to San Cristobal de las Casas. ...read less
Sumidero Canyon
Depart San Cristobal de las Casas toward Tuxtla Gutierrez airport. On the way, there is a visit to the enormous Sumidero Canyon to enjoy a boat ride. Have an unforgettable experience sailing down the Grijalva River, across a geological fault formed millions of years ago with dramatic cliffs up to one-kilometer-high and the river’s depth of 100 meters. Take a flight to Mexico City. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Depart San Cristobal de las Casas toward Tuxtla Gutierrez airport. On the way, there is a visit to the enormous Sumidero Canyon to enjoy a boat ride. Have an unforgettable experience sailing down the Grijalva River, across a geological fault formed millions of years ago with dramatic cliffs up to one-kilometer-high and the river’s depth of 100 meters. Take a flight to Mexico City. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Teotihuacan- Mexico City
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In the morning, depart the city, heading to the breathtaking archeological site of Teotihuacan. By the afternoon, following a tour of the ruins, return to Mexico City to visit the first quarter—el Zocalo. Mexico City is also known as the Ciudad de los Palacios (City of Palaces). The tour continues in the main square to visit some colonial palaces like the Palacio Nacional, the Metropolitan Cathedral and other beautiful architectural jewels and walk through the main streets. Continue to the Paseo de la Reforma to admire its monuments and buildings.
Later this evening, transfer to the airport for an overnight flight to Lima.
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Lima-Cusco
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Upon arrival in Lima, be met by Yampu staff to assist with the connecting flight to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco, be greeted and transferred to the hotel. This afternoon is at leisure to acclimate. Cusco’s elevation is approximately 3,400 meters (11,200 feet), so it is highly recommended to rest upon arrival for a few hours and taking in some coca tea.
Note: Check-in is normally after 2 pm. Early check-in may be granted subject to availability (not confirmed). Also, if one is to take a day flight to Lima, Yampu can accommodate a night at the airport hotel (at extra cost). Please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant.
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Cusco
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This morning, enjoy a private walking tour of Cusco to visit the Korikancha Temple, or Temple of the Sun, and the Cathedral and its Art Museum. During this private tour today there is the option to visit the Casa Concha museum or the San Pedro Market.
The Casa Concha museum was recently renovated and houses over 360 archaeological pieces from Machu Picchu, recently returned by Yale University. San Pedro Market is a lively, local market where one will receive a briefing about the local Andean ingredients and have an opportunity to purchase them. This market visit is a great opportunity to interact with the locals either selling or purchasing items from the market.
This afternoon there will be time for lunch before continuing to the nearby water shrine of Tambomachay (the Inca Fountains), Puca Pucara (the Red Fortress), the amphitheater of Kenko and finally the Sacsayhuaman Fortress. This afternoon, return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.
Note: For more adventurous travelers, Yampu suggests an optional sunset horseback riding tour through the Sacsayhuaman Ruins. Please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant for more information.
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Machu Picchu
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Early morning transfer to the train station. The train will take travelers through the Sacred Valley of the Incas up to the town of Aguas Calientes. From here, board a bus to Machu Picchu and then have a guided tour of the ruins. Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas, was a flourishing ceremonial and agricultural site, probably the gateway to the jungle marshes of the Inca Empire. The central buildings were erected with the polished stone works of the Cusco Imperial style, though the site was probably occupied well before the Incas started their expansion. It was associated with the earth cult revolving around the coca leaf, which was a privilege of the Inca royal family and priests. Enjoy lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge, at the entrance of the ruins, before returning to the hotel at leisure. In the evening, enjoy a wonderful dinner at the hotel or in the town of Aguas Calientes.
Note: Government regulations limit the number of visitors to Machu Picchu daily. Entrance is subject to availability. Please book with plenty of notice so Yampu may confirm entrance to the ruins. Machu Picchu entrance tickets are nonrefundable and nontransferable.
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Day at leisure
One may choose to return to Machu Picchu, hike Huayna Picchu or relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train to return to Cusco. Upon arrival, train station reception and transfer to the hotel.
Note: Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on this day are not included. Please contact a Yampu travel consultant if to go back to the ruins or hike the Huayna Picchu at time of booking (subject to availability).
One may choose to return to Machu Picchu, hike Huayna Picchu or relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train to return to Cusco. Upon arrival, train station reception and transfer to the hotel.
Note: Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on this day are not included. Please contact a Yampu travel consultant if to go back to the ruins or hike the Huayna Picchu at time of booking (subject to availability).
Cusco- Lima
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This morning, be met at the hotel in Cusco and transferred to the airport for a flight to Lima. Upon arrival, be greeted for airport reception and transferred to the hotel.
In the afternoon enjoy a private city tour of Lima, one of the most important cities in South America since its founding in 1535. Journey through the historic center of the city and admire the beauty of San Martin and Major squares, the Cathedral, the Government Palace, and visit San Francisco Convent, a religious building from the late 16th century, and its catacombs. This tour also includes a drive through the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. Please note the Cathedral is open daily except on Sundays.
During the tour travelers will also visit the Museo Larco. Founded in 1926 the Museo Larco chronologically showcases the past 3,000 years of Peruvian history and culture including its pre-Colombian history. The museum is located in a beautiful 18th century vice-royal mansion built atop a 7th century pre-Colombian tomb. After exploring the Museo Larco enjoy a complimentary cocktail and appetizer at the onsite Larco Cafe overlooking the beautiful, surrounding gardens.
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Lima- Buenos Aires
Today, transfer to the airport to take the flight to Lima and connect with the overnight flight to Buenos Aires.
Today, transfer to the airport to take the flight to Lima and connect with the overnight flight to Buenos Aires.
Buenos Aires
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Visit the most famous districts of Buenos Aires, discovering the history and modern life of this world-renowned city. The tour provides an in-depth introduction to its architecture, the culture of its people, its anecdotes and secrets. To be put simply Buenos Aires is exceptional: dynamic, sophisticated and overwhelming. An exquisite combination of a European atmosphere and the charm of Latin American cities. Begin at the famous Plaza de Mayo, before venturing out to the old tango districts of Buenos Aires: Monserrat, San Telmo and la Boca. Then, move on to the busiest areas - Puerto Madero, Retiro and Plaza San Martin - and then, districts with wonderful green spaces and old residences: Palermo and Recoleta before returning to the hotel. ...read less
Fiesta Gaucha
In this tour see the Gauchos countyside life and the peaceful and kind town where he lives. That's why the Argentinean Pampa is part of our tradition. The asado (barbecue), gaucho's activities and abilities, dances, and folk games are some of the options to enjoy. In the afternoon, enjoy pastelitos with mate cocido. Pampa is like this, gauchos, fields, traditions, crafts, a tour to learn and enjoy.
In this tour see the Gauchos countyside life and the peaceful and kind town where he lives. That's why the Argentinean Pampa is part of our tradition. The asado (barbecue), gaucho's activities and abilities, dances, and folk games are some of the options to enjoy. In the afternoon, enjoy pastelitos with mate cocido. Pampa is like this, gauchos, fields, traditions, crafts, a tour to learn and enjoy.
Buenos Aires at Leisure
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Day of leisure in Buenos Aires, evening tango show. At night, see an unforgettable tango show performed by the best dancers and singers, while enjoying a delicious meal. This constitutes the perfect way to leave Buenos Aires, the city of tango. Return to the hotel.
Note: There are several venues in the city, each offering something unique. Yampu includes the El Querandi or Esquina Carlos Gardel in the 3 and 4 star option with shared transfers, and the Rojo Tango or Gala Tango for the 5 star and deluxe options with private transfers. Estimated pick up time from the hotel is between 7:30 and 8:30 pm; dinner is served between 8:30 pm and 10:15 and tango show starts around 10:15 pm until 11:30 pm. Please speak to one of our Travel Consultants for detailed information on each venue and discuss with a Yampu travel consultant if there is a specific preference. ...read less
Flight to Iguazu
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to Iguazu. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to Iguazu. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Iguazu; Argentina Side
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Morning, guided tour to the Argentinean side of the waterfalls. Pick-up at the hotel and transfer to the visitor center inside Iguazu National Park. To get from the visitor center to the beginning of Upper Path, Lower Path and Devil’s Throat, board a little train that runs from the visitor center, to the paths, and between each one of them. One may also walk from the visitor center to Upper and Lower Paths, but not to Devil’s Throat because it is located more than four kilometers from the visitor center. Great Adventure: This tour combines a jungle trip with a boat trip to the falls. The trip starts in the jungle of the National Park in roofless 4x4 trucks for the best visibility of the trees and to take unobstructed photos. Take a zodiac boat to the lower Iguazu River upstream to discover the falls little by little with a panoramic view of Iguazu Falls. Be prepared to get wet under the falls! Afternoon, return to the hotel.
Note: Not permitted, are: children under 12 years of age, pregnant women, people with spinal or cardiac conditions, or anyone who would be physically unable to respond in case of a nautical emergency. Please ask your travel consultant about this. ...read less
Iguazu, Brazil Side- Rio de Janeiro
Morning, tour the Brazilian side of the falls. The thunderous crash of tons of rushing water against basaltic rocks amidst the jungle of birds, butterflies, and orchids will take one’s very breath away. Afternoon, transfer to the airport to take the flight to Rio de Janeiro. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Morning, tour the Brazilian side of the falls. The thunderous crash of tons of rushing water against basaltic rocks amidst the jungle of birds, butterflies, and orchids will take one’s very breath away. Afternoon, transfer to the airport to take the flight to Rio de Janeiro. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Corcovado
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Enjoy a private tour of Corcovado with a private driver and guide. The tour begins in Cosme Velho's neighborhood. The cog train rolls through the Tijuca Forest, the largest urban forest in the world, and up to the statue. Once there, enjoy a panoramic and extraordinary view of Rio, including the Sugar Loaf, the Guanabara Bay, the beaches of Southern Zone and the Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon. At the peak of the hill is Christ the Redeemer, the art deco statue of Jesus Christ, and icon of Rio. After the visit of the Corcovado, the tour continues to the Sao Conrado area with a brief stop at Pepino beach where you can appreciate the hang gliders overhead. Following the tour, transfer back to the hotel. ...read less
Rio at Leisure
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Day free to enjoy Rio, or chose from one of our optional day tours.
Tonight, enjoy Rio by night! The night tour includes a Brazilian music presentation at Rio Scenarium. Rio Scenarium is one of the premier places to listen to the best of Brazilian music. Located in Lapa, where the real carioca spirit of bohemian way of life can be felt. This venue is an antique shop during the day and a live music bar during the night. The programming changes every month. The clients are sophisticated listeners who really enjoy good music. After the show, around midnight, return to the hotel stuffed with tunes. This tour does not operate on Sundays or Mondays. Dinner not included.
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Flight Home
Transfer to the airport to take the flight back home.
Transfer to the airport to take the flight back home.
Cancún, Mexico
Merida, Mexico
Palenque, Mexico
San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico
Mexico City, Mexico
Lima, Peru
Cusco, Peru
Machu Picchu, Urubamba Province, Cusco, Peru
Buenos Aires, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina
Iguazu Falls, Misiones Province, Argentina
Rio de Janeiro - State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Places You'll See
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Cancun
From historical relics of Mayan civilization, to sandy beaches, Cancun has it all. Visit El Meco, a substantial archeological site on the mainland, or The Interactive Aquarium of Cancun where you can get acquainted with all sorts of aquatic life, and even swim with dolphins. If an aquarium isn’t exciting enough, dive into the sea with some of Cancun’s best scuba diving instructors.
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Merida
Take in the Colonial architecture while visiting the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatan. Merida is a bustling city overflowing with culture and history. Explore the art scene with some stops at local museums including the MACAY Gallery. Find souvenirs and other fun things at the bustling and colorful Lucas de Galvez market, and learn about ancient Maya culture at The Great Museum of the Maya World.
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Palenque
Containing some of the finest architecture, Palenque was once a Maya city state that had been abandoned to be swallowed by the Mexican jungle. Now partially excavated, eight temples and other structures stand today. It is believed that this is only ten percent of the entire Maya City that is still mostly consumed by nature. Enjoy a guided tour and learn what there is of this ancient city.
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Mexico City
From the bustling nightlife, to the massive collection of museums, Mexico City appeals to all. Bring the family to Six Flags Mexico, or the Chapultepec Park and Zoo. Sports fans can enjoy the Estadio Azteca, the biggest soccer stadium in the world, or the Arena Mexico to watch the famous Lucha Libre. Or simply stroll the streets and visit different restaurants and shops.
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Lima
Bursting with architectural history and culture, Lima has an eclectic array of attractions. Visit the Santo Domingo Convent, a religious and artistic staple of the city’s historic center. Take a walk along the cliffs of the Miraflores district, showcasing the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, and after, enjoy some shopping at the Larcomar Mall.
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Cusco
Once a powerful Incan city, Cusco is filled to the brim with relics of its grand history. Visit the ruins of the ancient Incan Koricancha Temple, where the Church of Santo Domingo now stands atop. Behold the many beautiful, colonial buildings in the Main Square, including the Cathedral and Church of La Compania de Jesus (Society of Christ).
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Machu Picchu
Recently, following UNESCO recommendations, Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. While these new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins, they may cause some difficulties in your ability to visit them, so we recommend booking with plenty of notice.
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Buenos Aires
One of South America’s most stunning cities, Buenos Aires will charm and delight anyone who walks its dazzling streets. Enjoy watching a tango show or visiting the many shopping centers such as Alto Palermo, or Paseo Alcorta. Buenos Aires is also home to several music festivals such as Quilmes Rock, Creamfields BA, and the Buenos Aires Jazz Festival.
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Puerto Iguazu
Just a short distance away from the Iguazu Falls, the beautiful city of Puerto Iguazu is full of wonderful sites and attractions. View the Museum of Images of the Jungle, a beautiful collection of woodcarvings. Look around at Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay all at the same time, at the Three Frontiers Landmark where the three countries meet.
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Rio de Janeiro
The largest Art Deco statue in the world, Christ the Redeemer, welcomes travelers to the famous city, Rio de Janeiro. Let the local music, art, and food capture your sense as you visit its sandy beaches or watch an enchanting samba show. Try your hand at trekking up Pao de Acucar (Sugarloaf Mountain) for beautiful views of the bay and beyond.
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Testimonials
Greg B., United Kingdom
Traveled February, 2013
When a problem was encountered, Yampu worked with local tour operators to sort out the issue very quickly
After working with Yampu to provide me with my second holiday to the America’s, I am delighted to say it has been another success. We have now travelled to Peru, Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras with routes dictated by my needs to see sites that may not be on other people standard routes. Yampu have twice worked with local providers to make my unique routes possible. When a problem was encountered, Yampu worked with local tour operators to sort out the issue very quickly. I am already thinking ahead to my next trip with Yampu.
Traveled To
Ed
Traveled August, 2006
We had a great trip and were happy with the service provided by Yampu
We had a great trip and were happy with the service provided by Yampu. You can use my name as a reference. I have traveled to over 30 countries and your travel company made our trip to Peru, Argentina and Brazil one of the best and hassle free.
Traveled To
Williana P.
Traveled November, 2013
Yampu Tours made our south-america trip back in Nov 2013 a wonderful experience
Yampu Tours made our south-america trip back in Nov 2013 a wonderful experience. They have been very responsive since the time we inquired about their service. Even when our rep was out of the office, her manager answered our questions, so we never had to wait and wonder. We visited Peru, Argentina, and Brazil (Iguazu) with Yampu and everything went smoothly. All the specific particulars that we had asked for (like the penguin tour) were all booked and set up nicely. The hotels we stayed at were located in prime locations, making it easy for us to walk around the cities and find good restaurants, and not to mention the staff there were helpful and friendly. The local guides that Yampu had arranged for us were punctual and knowledgeable. We learned so many fascinating things that we probably wouldn’t have had we gone on our own. On the second day of our Machu Picchu visit, we ended our hike early and we called to see if we could just travel back to Cusco on an earlier train. Yampu was able to work that out for us. We wouldn’t hesitate traveling with Yampu again!
Traveled To